Last Thursday and Friday, the Gustavus Board of Trustees was on campus for a regularly scheduled Board meeting. Over the weekend, I found myself thinking about how fortunate we are at Gustavus. Our Board members are engaged, enthusiastic, and deeply committed to both the short-term and long-term success of the College. They believe in our vision and are leaning into the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan initiatives. They listen intently, ask tough questions, and are unafraid to challenge assumptions. They are mission-centered, smart, generous, come from diverse backgrounds, and they absolutely love Gustavus.
Much of the Board’s work happens through committees, which include not only our trustees but also employees, students, alumni, and non-Gustie experts. I am grateful for those who serve on Board Committees and the ways in which they support the good work of the College’s employees. Some of the big topics that were discussed at last week’s meeting include the growing number of college-age students with mental health concerns and the increasing demands on our Counseling Center and Academic Support Center, a review of the preliminary budget for 2020-21 thanks to the work of the Internal Budget Committee and Cabinet, an update on our Show the World comprehensive campaign, and discussions about the preparation of construction documents for the expansion and renovation of Lund Center. As always, discussions of academics (including the implementation of our new General Education Curriculum and first master’s degree program in Athletic Training) and the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan weaved throughout our various meetings.
In addition to all the meetings, the Trustees enjoyed watching two amazing dance numbers performed by our students after dinner on Thursday evening, had breakfast with students in the Caf on Friday morning, talked with students presenting posters in the Campus Center on their recent internships, attended Daily Sabbath in Christ Chapel, which featured violin and vocal selections performed by music faculty in the theme of Valentine’s Day, and had lunch with leaders of the Finance Division. We continually aim to give our Trustees a sense of life on campus, and we always encourage them to be present on campus in between Board meetings to participate in College events.
All in all, the mood is upbeat. The positive momentum is palpable. The Trustees are hard at work and continue to offer their individual skills and experiences for the good of the whole institution. When you see our Trustees on campus, please take a minute to introduce yourself and thank them for their commitment of time and talents to Gustavus.
I hope to see you at the All-Employee meeting on Friday at 10:30 a.m. in Cec Eckhoff Alumni Hall.
Until then, keep up the good work, Gusties!
With respect,
Becky